Peter Molyneux, the founder of Fable developer Lionhead Studios and creative director at Microsoft Game Studios Europe, has announced that he is leaving both companies to pursue new endeavors with an independent venture called 22 Cans.

From ArsTechnica:

Both Microsoft and Molyneux are indicating the separation is entirely amicable. "I felt the time was right to pursue a new independent venture," Molyneux said in a statement to Kotaku. "I'd like to thank the team at Lionhead, as well as our partners at Microsoft Studios for their support, dedication and incredible work over the years."

Microsoft returned the sentiment, saying Molyneux has "made an indelible mark on the games industry and we wish him all the best of luck in his future endeavors."